Chapter 250 Consort Fucha
Chapter 250 Consort Fucha
Just then, Su Peisheng rushed in and reported:
"Your Majesty, Consort Wen has summoned the imperial physician. Would you like to go and take a look?"
Upon hearing this, Fucha Peiyun immediately asked, "Why would Consort Wen invite the imperial physician?"
Is she alright? How is the baby in her womb?
Your Majesty, Consort Wen is already over five months pregnant.
"Nothing can happen to her, Your Majesty. Why don't you go and see her?"
The chubby orange cat frowned, somewhat displeased that its pleasant mood had been interrupted.
But upon hearing that it was Consort Wen who was unwell, he immediately became anxious.
He has lost his fertility, so the pregnant concubines like Consort Wen cannot be harmed.
"What's going on, Big Fat Orange?"
Su Peisheng quickly replied:
"Your Majesty, this servant is also unaware of the specific details."
Upon hearing that Consort Wen had suddenly felt unwell, they hurriedly summoned the imperial physician.
The imperial physician has already gone to examine the patient, but this servant feels it is still necessary to report to His Majesty.
At this moment, Fucha Peiyun also spoke up:
"Your Majesty, shall I accompany you to Changchun Palace?"
The chubby orange cat waved its hand and said:
"It's getting late, so you don't need to come along."
"I can go and take a look myself; you should rest early. I'll come again next time and we can admire the paintings together."
Seeing that the chubby orange had said this, Fucha Peiyun could not insist any further and could only say:
"Your Majesty, I respectfully see you off."
Big Fatty Orange hurriedly left Kunning Palace with Su Peisheng. After Fucha Peiyun saw Big Fatty Orange off...
He instructed Ye'er, "Remember to send some baby supplies and suitable fabrics for the baby tomorrow."
Go to Changchun Palace
Ye'er nodded and said, "Yes, this servant has remembered."
Fucha Peiyun added, "Remember to have the imperial physician examine you."
Ye'er replied, "This servant understands."
Time flies, and another half month has passed in the blink of an eye.
Zhen Huan sent messages to Da Pang Ju every day, and eventually Da Pang Ju was released from confinement.
As soon as Zhen Huan was released from confinement, she wanted to go to Yanxi Palace to see her younger sister, Zhen Yu Rao.
I heard that Yu Rao's cold poison has stopped flaring up, but the specifics are unclear.
Zhen Huan, however, was unaware.
But after years of lying low in the palace, no matter how anxious Zhen Huan was...
He did not lose his mind.
Zhen Huan first went to pay her respects at the Kunning Palace and Yikun Palace of Empress Fucha Peiyun and Empress Nian Shilan, respectively.
This was also a way of letting everyone in the harem know that Zhen Huan would be moving around the palace again.
Kunning Palace
Ye'er came to report that Consort Wan had come to pay her respects.
Fucha Peiyun did not put down her brush either; this time, she painted a picture of a galloping horse.
There are far too few forms of entertainment in the palace.
With Big Fat Orange around, there are some things we need to keep in check.
After much thought, she realized that drawing was what she liked best; she could play with it for a long time by herself.
Fucha Peiyun showed no reaction upon hearing that Zhen Huan had been released again.
He continued working with his hands, saying, "Please come in."
Ye'er responded and went out.
Soon, Zhen Huan, supported by Cui Jinxi, was led by Ye'er to Fucha Peiyun's study.
After Zhen Huan entered, she released her grip on Cui Jinxi's hand.
The master and servant bowed together to Fucha Peiyun.
Zhen Huan said softly, "Your Majesty, I greet you. May Your Majesty enjoy boundless blessings and peace."
Fucha Peiyun slightly raised her eyes, looked at Zhen Huan, a faint smile curving her lips, and said softly:
"Consort Wan, you may dispense with the formalities. You are not feeling well, so please sit down and speak with us."
Zhen Huan, supported by Cui Jinxi's hand, slowly rose to her feet.
His gaze inadvertently swept over the table where Fucha Peiyun was drawing, and he couldn't help but be slightly taken aback.
She looked closely and saw the picture of a galloping horse leaping off the paper.
The horse in the painting gallops as if flying, its hooves creating a gust of wind, its mane flying.
It's as if you can hear its cry, and its lifelike posture makes it seem as if it's about to leap out of the painting at any moment.
Zhen Huan couldn't help but sigh inwardly, Fucha Peiyun's talent was indeed outstanding.
This painting is a masterpiece in terms of both brushwork and artistic conception.
Upon seeing the painting, Zhen Huan felt a flush rise to her ears.
Thinking back to when I first entered the palace, I also boasted of my outstanding talent.
She compared herself to a female Zhuge Liang and looked down on the arrogant Consort Fucha.
But as time went on, her understanding of Fucha Peiyun deepened.
Only then did I realize that her talent and wisdom far surpassed mine.
As far as they knew, Fucha Peiyun could play the zither, paint, and was skilled in riding and archery.
She managed the harem in an orderly manner, without ever making a mistake.
I am like a frog in a well, looking at the sky from the bottom of a well.
They thought they had the whole world at their fingertips, but they didn't realize that there are always higher heavens and more capable people out there.
That is why she suffered a crushing defeat in her contest with Fucha Peiyun.
Zhen Huan lowered her eyes slightly, concealing the complex emotions in her heart, and said softly:
"Your Majesty's painting of this horse is truly lifelike."
Although I am not skilled in painting, I can still see the extraordinary charm in it.
Your Highness's talent is truly admirable.
Fucha Peiyun smiled slightly, put down her paintbrush, and said calmly:
"You flatter me, Consort Wan. It's just a way to pass the time."
What brings you here today?
Zhen Huan said respectfully
"Your Majesty, I have been confined to the palace to recuperate for so long that I have not been able to pay my respects for so long. I am truly sorry for this."
"I've been feeling much better lately, so I've come to pay my respects to Your Majesty."
Fucha Peiyun nodded slightly, her tone remaining calm:
"Now that you're feeling better, take good care of yourself. You can certainly take a walk around the palace if you wish."
However, I must remind you sisters: please refrain from doing anything unnecessary.
This seemingly ordinary sentence made Zhen Huan's heart tighten suddenly.
A chill seemed to rise up from my spine.
Even Cui Jinxi, who was standing next to her, couldn't help but change her expression.
Zhen Huan wondered to herself, what exactly did Fucha Peiyun mean by those words?
Did she know that Yu Rao was her sister?
What else does she know?
What was her purpose in saying that?
Zhen Huan forced a smile and said, trying to remain calm:
"Your Majesty, I do not understand what you mean."
My younger sister, Huanbi, has been dead for many years.
Where in this palace are my sisters now?
Fucha Peiyun's lips curled slightly, a half-smile playing on her lips as she looked at Zhen Huan.
Then he slowly picked up the teacup on the table, took a small sip, and said unhurriedly:
"Huanhuan, you are a smart person. There are some things that you naturally understand without me having to say them."
You're in such a hurry to come out this time, probably because of your sister.
It's your good fortune to be reunited after so many years apart, sisters.
I just hope you won't let me down.
Zhen Huan's heart sank, and her face turned deathly pale instantly.
Her heart was in turmoil, and Fucha Peiyun's words were like a sharp blade, piercing straight into her most vulnerable spot.
She knew that Fucha Peiyun was not just talking casually; she must already know something.
But how much did she know?
Is there anything she doesn't know?
Fucha Peiyun put the lid on the teapot, slightly raised her head, and her gaze shot straight at Zhen Huan like a sharp arrow.
Her voice remained calm, yet carried an undeniable air of authority:
"I know you have many questions in your heart, but there are some things I don't want to point out."
If you're smart, you'll know how to conduct yourself.
Upon hearing this, Zhen Huan could only hold onto Cui Jinxi's hand.
"Yes, Your Majesty, I shall take my leave."
Zhen Huan, supported by Cui Jinxi, left Kunning Palace in a daze.
As Zhen Huan walked out of Kunning Palace, her heart was filled with turmoil.
Every word Fucha Peiyun said felt like it was striking her heart, leaving her nowhere to hide.
"Your Highness, Aunt Jinxi, what's wrong?"
Xiao Yunzi's voice suddenly rang in my ears, carrying a hint of worry and doubt.
Zhen Huan snapped back to her senses, her body trembling slightly as if startled by the sudden sound.
She composed herself and tried to restore a calm expression.
Then, forcing a smile, he said to Xiaoyunzi:
"It's nothing, I just talked to Her Majesty the Empress and I'm a little tired."
Cui Jinxi quickly chimed in:
"Yes, Your Highness has been talking with the Empress for so long today, it's natural that you're a little tired."
Cui Jinxi paused for a moment, then gently advised:
"Your Highness, you look so tired. Why don't we go back to Suiyu Pavilion and rest for a while?"
"It's not too late to go to Lingkun Palace after you've rested and recovered."
Zhen Huan gently shook her head and said firmly, "I'm fine, let's go to Lingkun Palace instead."
Jinxi and Xiaoyunzi exchanged a glance, seeing that her mind was made up.
Without saying another word, he hurriedly stepped forward to help Zhen Huan and carefully helped her into the sedan chair.
The group walked hurriedly and soon arrived at Lingkun Palace.
After Zhou Ninghai went in to announce her arrival, Zhen Huan, led by a palace maid, slowly entered Yikun Palace.
Upon entering the hall, Zhen Huan saw Nian Shilan lounging lazily on a soft couch.
The palace maid beside her was gently massaging her shoulders and back to relieve her fatigue.
Meanwhile, Songzhi diligently peeled grapes for Nian Shilan.
What surprised Zhen Huan even more was that on the other side of Nian Shilan,
Another palace maid was holding a book and reading softly, seemingly to help Nian Shilan pass the time.
Zhen Huan couldn't help but wonder: When did Shi Lan develop a love for reading?
She composed herself, released her grip on Cui Jinxi's hand, and walked closer. Zhen Huan curtsied and said:
"Your Majesty, I pay my respects. May Your Majesty enjoy boundless blessings and peace."
Nian Shilan slightly raised her eyelids and said, "With your frail body, you can skip these formalities."
Although Zhen Huan was somewhat displeased, she still spoke respectfully on the surface:
"Thank you for your kindness, Empress."
She stood up, her hands at her sides, quietly waiting for Nian Shilan to continue.
Nian Shilan sat up straight, looked at Zhen Huan with a half-smile, and slowly said:
"The Emperor has released you again. He is as biased as ever."
Zhen Huan pretended not to hear the implied meaning in Nian Shilan's words and replied softly:
"I am unwell and have therefore closed my palace to recuperate. It is not because Your Majesty is showing favoritism."
"Nian Shilan, don't treat the other women in the harem like fools."
Whether you are confined to the palace or imprisoned, it is none of my concern.
Nian Shilan picked up the cup on the table.
"Alright, Consort Wan has paid her respects. I won't keep you any longer."
Zhen Huan watched as Nian Shilan served tea to see the guests off, and swallowed the words she wanted to say.
He simply gave a slight curtsy and said softly:
"Yes, Your Majesty, I shall take my leave."
After Zhen Huan and Cui Jinxi left Yikun Palace, Zhen Huan's expression was solemn.
"Jinxi, do you think they all know what I did?"
Cui Jinxi pondered for a moment, then said softly:
"Your Majesty, the Empress of Kunning Palace must know something."
But the Empress of Lingkun Palace might not know this.
However, whether they know it or not, Your Highness should make plans as soon as possible.
Zhen Huan said slowly, "What else can I do but rely on the Emperor's meager past affection?"
Jinxi: "Your Majesty..."
Zhen Huan said, "Never mind, I'll make a decision after I've met Yu Rao. I don't know what she's like."
The Emperor should be off duty now; let's go to the Hall of Mental Cultivation to express our gratitude.
Jinxi respectfully replied, "Yes, Your Majesty."
Zhen Huan boarded the sedan chair again, and the entourage headed towards the Hall of Mental Cultivation in a grand procession.
Before long, they arrived outside the Hall of Mental Cultivation.
Xiao Yunzi hurriedly stepped forward to inform the Emperor that Zhen Huan had come to pay her respects.
Not long after, Su Peisheng emerged from the hall and delivered an imperial decree:
"By imperial decree, Your Highness is invited inside."
Zhen Huan took a deep breath and steadied herself.
She straightened her qipao.
Holding Jinxi's hand, he stepped into the Hall of Mental Cultivation.
Upon entering the hall, Zhen Huan immediately saw the chubby man sitting upright on the dragon throne, intently reviewing memorials.
His figure appeared somewhat blurry in the sunlight.
Hearing Zhen Huan's footsteps as she entered, the chubby orange cat slowly raised its head.
A faint smile appeared on his lips.
He put down his vermilion brush and his gaze fell on Zhen Huan.
"Huanhuan, you've arrived."
When Zhen Huan saw the fat orange cat's appearance, a complex emotion welled up in her heart.
He had become so haggard after only a few months apart.
Her once round face was now much thinner, and her eye sockets were sunken.
His behavior made Zhen Huan feel both pleased and wistful.
Zhen Huan slowly bent her knees to perform a curtsy.
Big Fat Orange stood up early and quickly reached out to help her when she was about to bow.
"Huanhuan, there's no need for such formalities."
The chubby orange cat's voice carried a hint of weariness, but its tone remained gentle.
"I'm sorry you've had to go through all this trouble."
Zhen Huan: "Your Majesty, I thank you for your mercy."
Please forgive my momentary lapse of judgment; please lift my confinement.
Her voice trembled slightly, revealing a hint of guilt and unease.
Zhen Huan raised her head, gazing at the large, chubby orange cat, her eyes filled with concern:
"But, Silang, it's only been a few months, how come you look so haggard?"
Her tone was full of heartache and worry.
Big Orange smiled slightly, trying to comfort Zhen Huan, but her smile betrayed her exhaustion.
"The affairs of the court are numerous and complicated, and I inevitably feel somewhat exhausted."
Zhen Huan quickly got up, walked to the chubby orange cat's side, gently stroked his hand, and said softly:
"Si Lang is working hard for the country, so he should take good care of his health."
"With my lord in this state, I am truly worried."
Her gaze was gentle and affectionate, which warmed Big Fat Orange's heart.
Big Fat Orange felt that Huanhuan was still the most considerate.
The chubby orange cat sighed, pulled Zhen Huan to sit down beside him, and slowly said:
"Seeing you makes me feel much more relaxed."
Zhen Huan smiled slightly, gently took the chubby orange's hand, and whispered:
"Fourth Prince, I know you must have had a hard time these past few days."
"How about I play a few rounds of piano with you to help you relax?"
The chubby orange cat paused for a moment, then nodded and said:
"Alright, I'm feeling rather agitated right now. A few rounds of chess with Huanhuan will help me relax."
Su Peisheng quickly retrieved the chess pieces.
Zhen Huan took the chess piece, smiled slightly, and said, "Fourth Master,"
Would you like to choose black or white?
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